While going on a trip, there’s always the problem of whose car we are going to take. And the one with the 9-10 seater always lands in trouble. So, what are these 9-10 seater cars called? They are known as “Multi Utility Vehicles”.

These vehicles are meant for big families, meaning it has a niche market in India. It has been gaining popularity over the years in the automobile market, with new models coming out to tap this hidden market. So, which are the best MUVs in the Indian automobile industry right now? Get your answers here.
What are MUV Cars?
MUV stands for Multi-Utility Vehicle, a category of cars specifically designed to transport both passengers and cargo with ease. MUVs are known for their versatility, spacious interiors, and practical features, making them a perfect choice for families, large groups, and commercial usage alike. While SUVs and MUVs sound alike, they are pretty different from one another. SUVs are built for off-roading and performance, whereas MUVs focus more on comfort. MUVs have ample amount of boot space, multi-row seating arrangements and a high ground clearance, making them ideal for long-distance travel, fleet work and bigger groups of people.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an MUV
You should consider the following factors while choosing an MUV:
Seating Capacity
Ensure the MUV suits your family or commercial requirements, typically ranging from 6 to 9 seats with flexible configurations.
Boot Space
Choose a model with ample luggage capacity, especially if you travel with bulky gear or go on long trips.
Fuel Efficiency
MUVs can be heavier, so pick one with a balance of power and fuel economy, especially for daily or long-distance use.
Ride Comfort and Suspension
Look for good suspension and interior comfort, essential for passenger satisfaction on rough or long roads.
Safety Features
Prioritise MUVs with airbags, ABS with EBD, parking sensors, and a solid safety rating.
Engine Performance
Depending on your usage, go for a petrol, diesel, or CNG variant. Diesel is preferred for longer runs or commercial purposes.
Maintenance and After-Sales Support
Choose brands with accessible service centres and reliable parts availability.
Budget and Resale Value
Evaluate total cost of ownership, including insurance, service, fuel, and eventual resale value.
Transmission Options
Manual is more common in budget-friendly models, but AMT and automatic options offer ease in urban traffic.
Brand Reputation and Reliability
Proven track record in India, strong build quality, and consumer trust go a long way.
List of Best MUV Cars in India in 2025
These are the Best MUV Cars in India in 2025:
MUV Model | Approx. Ex-Showroom Price (₹) |
---|---|
Toyota Innova Crysta | ₹19.99 – ₹26.30 lakh |
Mahindra Marazzo | ₹14.59 – ₹17.00 lakh |
Kia Carens | ₹10.45 – ₹19.45 lakh |
Renault Triber | ₹6.33 – ₹8.97 lakh |
Toyota Rumion | ₹10.44 – ₹13.73 lakh |
BYD e6 (Electric) | ₹29.15 lakh |
Maruti Suzuki Ertiga | ₹8.69 – ₹13.03 lakh |
MG Windsor EV | Expected ₹27 – ₹32 lakh (Estimated)* |
Toyota Vellfire | ₹1.20 crore |
Kia Carnival (2025) | Expected ₹26 – ₹35 lakh (Estimated)* |
*Price may differ depending on variant, location and dealerships
1. Toyota Innova Crysta
The Toyota Innova Crysta was launched in 2016 and got a refreshed look in 2023. The Innova Crysta is renowned for its robust build, 7-airbag safety, and strong resale value in India’s MUV market. It has multiple powertrain options - petrol and diesel - making it an even more popular choice amongst MUV enthusiasts.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 2.4 L turbocharged diesel (2GD‑FTV I4), 150 HP @ 3400 rpm, 343 Nm @ 1400–2800 rpm
- Mileage: 13.6 km/l (ARAI)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 55 L
- Fuel Type: Diesel (also available in petrol variant)
- Transmission: 5‑speed manual
- Top Speed: 175 km/hr
- Ground Clearance: 176 mm
- Safety Features: 7 SRS airbags, ABS, EBD, Vehicle Stability Control, Hill-Start Assist, GOA body structure
2. Mahindra Marazzo
Introduced in 2018, the Mahindra Marazzo has a unique shark-inspired design. The Marazzo combines bold aesthetics with a comfortable cabin and Pininfarina styling oversight. It falls under the mid-range segment, and is a perfect buy for joint families or for people wanting to have a balanced MUV.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5 L turbo diesel (4D15 I4), 121 HP @ 3500 rpm, 300 Nm @ 1750–2500 rpm
- Mileage: 17.3 km/l (ARAI)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 45 L
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Transmission: 6‑speed manual
- Top Speed: 145 km/hr
- Ground Clearance: 200 mm
- Safety Features: Dual front airbags, ABS, EBD, disc brakes, ISOFIX child mounts, high-speed warning, 4-star GNCAP rating
3. Kia Carens
Launched in India in February 2022, the Kia Carens is a versatile MUV that offers three-row seating, futuristic styling, and 6 airbags as standard across all variants. It has an SUV-like design but with MUV-like comfort. Coming under more of a premium range, Kia Carens provides a premium MUV feel with a 5-7 seater arrangement.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5 L turbo petrol, 158 HP @ 5500 rpm, 253 Nm @ 1500–3500 rpm
- Mileage: 16.8 km/l (petrol), 21.3 km/l (diesel)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 45 L
- Fuel Type: Petrol / Diesel
- Transmission: 6-speed MT / 7-speed DCT / 6-speed AT
- Top Speed: 180 km/hr
- Ground Clearance: 195 mm
- Safety Features: 6 airbags standard, ESC, VSM, hill-start assist, TPMS, ABS, rear parking sensors
4. Renault Triber
Debuted in 2019, the Triber is a sub-4m 7-seater MUV known for its modular seating and affordability, designed specifically for Indian families. It is an entry-level MUV, with one of the best safety ratings in this category (4-star GNCAP).
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 1.0 L petrol, 71 HP @ 6250 rpm, 96 Nm @ 3500 rpm
- Mileage: 19 km/l (ARAI)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 40 L
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Transmission: 5-speed MT / AMT
- Top Speed: 155 km/hr
- Ground Clearance: 182 mm
- Safety Features: Dual airbags, ABS, EBD, reverse parking sensors, high-speed alert
5. Toyota Rumion
Launched in India in 2023, the Toyota Rumion is a revamped version of the Maruti Ertiga, offering reliability, fuel efficiency, and a CNG option under the Toyota banner. Although an MUV, it does have some off-road capabilities due to a strong wheelbase. This 7-seater MUV has become the new norm for families in India after the Ertiga.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5 L petrol, 103 HP @ 6000 rpm, 137 Nm @ 4400 rpm
- Mileage: 20.5 km/l (petrol), 26.1 km/kg (CNG)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 45 L
- Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
- Transmission: 5-speed MT / 6-speed AT
- Top Speed: 170 km/hr
- Ground Clearance: 180 mm
- Safety Features: Dual airbags, ABS, EBD, rear parking sensors, ISOFIX mounts
6. BYD e6
Launched in India in 2021 for commercial use and later extended to private buyers, the BYD e6 is a fully electric MPV known for its massive range and minimalist design. It supports both AC and DC charging. E6 is equipped to tackle challenges for daily commuting.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: Electric motor, 94 HP, 180 Nm torque
- Mileage: 520 km (ARAI range on full charge)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 71.7 kWh
- Fuel Type: Electric
- Transmission: Automatic
- Top Speed: 130 km/hr
- Ground Clearance: 170 mm
- Safety Features: 4 airbags, TPMS, ESC, rear camera, disc brakes all around
7. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga
One of India’s best-selling MUVs since 2012, the Ertiga is known for its family-friendly features, practicality, and low maintenance. It is considered one of the best value for money MUVs in the segment. Ertiga provides excellent features like paddle shifter, 4 airbags, touch screen infotainment system, etc.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5 L petrol, 103 HP @ 6000 rpm, 137 Nm @ 4400 rpm
- Mileage: 20.5 km/l (petrol), 26.1 km/kg (CNG)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 45 L
- Fuel Type: Petrol / CNG
- Transmission: 5-speed MT / 6-speed AT
- Top Speed: 170 km/hr
- Ground Clearance: 180 mm
- Safety Features: Dual airbags, ABS, EBD, ESP (in top variants), hill hold assist
8. MG Windsor EV
Launched in September 2024, it is MG’s third instalment into the Indian market under the “CUV” category. This EV is considered a crossover utility vehicle, finding a middle ground between SUVs and MUVs. It's essentially a revamped version of the Wuling Cloud EV, with India-specific updates.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: Electric motor, 134 bhp (136 PS) and 200 Nm
- Mileage: 331 km
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 38 kWh
- Fuel Type: Electric
- Transmission: Automatic
- Top Speed: 170 km/hr
- Ground Clearance: 186 mm
- Safety Features: 6 airbags, ADAS Level 2, ESC, lane assist, adaptive cruise
9. Toyota Vellfire
The Toyota Vellfire is a luxury MUV that blends electric-hybrid tech with ultra-premium features. The updated version launched in 2023 comes with a strong hybrid setup. It is also available in a single petrol variant. Vellfire is Toyota’s answer to luxurious MUVs in India.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 2.5 L petrol hybrid, 193 HP combined, 206 Nm torque
- Mileage: 19.3 km/l
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 58 L
- Fuel Type: Petrol-hybrid
- Transmission: e-CVT
- Top Speed: 170 km/hr
- Ground Clearance: 165 mm
- Safety Features: 7 airbags, Toyota Safety Sense (ADAS), ESP, lane departure alert
10. Kia Carnival (New Gen Expected 2025)
The new-gen Kia Carnival is expected to relaunch in India in late 2025 with updated styling, enhanced safety features, and hybrid powertrain options.
Key Specifications:(Expected)
- Engine: 2.2 L turbo diesel, 200 HP @ 3800 rpm, 440 Nm @ 1750–2750 rpm
- Mileage: ~14.1 km/l (diesel)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 60 L
- Fuel Type: Diesel
- Transmission: 8-speed AT
- Top Speed: ~190 km/hr
- Ground Clearance: 180 mm
- Safety Features: 6 airbags, ESC, ADAS, blind-spot monitoring, parking assist
Key Takeaways
Manufacturers have started tapping into the MPV market of India. MPVs are getting recognition and popularity amongst buyers, especially as a tourist vehicle and for larger families. However, do not forget to pair your MPV with car insurance. Car insurance ensures you and your family remain well protected financially, along with your car, in case of an accident. Get your MUVs insured today at Coverfox – Also. Get the best car insurance premium rates online here.
Also Read:
Frequently Asked Questions
Which MUV car has the best mileage in India in 2025?
Maruti Invicto
Which are some of the best-selling MUVs in India?
Best-selling MUVs include Ertiga, Innova and Triber.
Which are the best MUV cars under Rs. 15 lakhs in India?
Triber and Ertiga
Which MUVs come with sunroofs?
Kia Carnival, Innova Crysta, Vellfire, etc.
Which are the safest MUVs in India?
Triber is considered one of the safest MUVs in India with a GNCAP rating of 4 stars.
Are SUVs and MUVs the same thing?
No, SUVs are built for performance and off-roading, whereas MUVs are built for long-distance travel and comfort.
Which is a bigger car, SUV or MUV?
Generally, an MUV is bigger.
Which is a better option, an SUV or an MUV?
It depends on your needs.
Which are Budget MUV cars in India under Rs. 10 lakhs?
Rumion, Ertiga and Triber